Rod-shaped Mo(vi) trichalcogenide–Mo(vi) oxide decorated on poly(1-H pyrrole) as a promising nanocomposite photoelectrode for green hydrogen generation from sewage water with high efficiency

Abstract

Abstract The synthesis of rod-shaped Mo(vi) trichalcogenide–Mo(vi) oxide, cleverly adorned on a poly(1-H pyrrole) (P1HP) matrix (MoS3–MoO3/P1HP), is achieved through a one-pot preparation method. This process occurs under the pyrrole oxidation employing the oxidizing agent Na2MoO4. Notably, this oxidation process facilitates the direct incorporation of the inorganic constituents into the polymer matrix. Of particular significance is the material’s bandgap, which is optimally situated at 1.4 eV, rendering it highly suitable for its intended applications. The material assumes a rod-like structure, characterized by an average length of 400 nm and width of 30 nm, further enhancing its desirability. In practice, this thin film serves as an exceptionally promising photoelectrode. It finds its forte in the generation of hydrogen from sewage water, achieving an impressive efficiency rate of 12.66%, specifically at 340 nm. In addition to that, it boasts a remarkable hydrogen generation rate of 1.2 moles·h−1·cm−2. Moreover, the material exhibits remarkable versatility in its response to light. Its sensitivity to monochromatic light across a broad optical spectrum (UV till IR), underscores its potential for hydrogen generation applications for industrial applications.